Introducing You to OPEN Hairdressing’s Devoted Director John Phillips

I began cutting at fourteen and loved it from day one

Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at OPEN Hairdressing 

I am the Director and Founder of OPEN Hairdressing in Hertfordshire. My responsibilities include looking after my fabulous clientele and ensuring that every member of staff at OPEN is happy within the company.

I began cutting at fourteen and have loved it from day one. However, my professional career began at Mahogany Hairdressing in Mayfair where I qualified at nineteen. I then progressed by working on the salon floor and at various hair shows.  Succeeding this, I joined the famous Vidal Sassoon where I became a stylist in their flagship store on South Molton Street. After having built a strong client base, I decided to push for my ultimate dream in hairdressing and became an educator at the Vidal Sassoon Academy

What do you think makes OPEN Hairdressing different to other salons? 

I believe that the relaxed, professional vibe that makes clients feel they don’t have to stick to one stylist or colourist is what makes OPEN Hairdressing different to other hair salons in Hertfordshire. When you come to one of our salons, you are part of a family of hairdressers who not only love what they do, but understand that teamwork helps to provide such a warm and welcoming environment. The ethos of OPEN is that we have never been focused on one specific group of clients – we welcome young and old, ladies and gents. It makes our days so much more varied and exciting!

John during a demonstration for OPEN Hairdressing Education

What can clients expect when they have an appointment with you? 

My style of hairdressing is hair design that the client can recreate at home. Suitability is always key, not just for the client’s look but also their lifestyle. I want to ensure that my haircuts are purely tailored to the individual. Therefore, I strongly believe that a consultation is the most essential part of the client’s experience. 

What do you enjoy most about your role at OPEN Hairdressing? 

The aspect that I enjoy most about my role is seeing a client leaving the salon feeling happy and confident. I feel the same about seeing our apprentices from all the salons coming through the ranks. As a result, I would like to take a step back from the chair. Instead, I’m beginning to focus my attention on developing our in-house training scheme, OPEN Education.

For me, I truly think that a solid foundation within our craft is essential to becoming a great hairdresser. We are so fortunate to have the team we have and pass on our knowledge to future team members. Hairdressing is my biggest love and the reason I am happy going to work every day. Being around such talented people keeps me open minded to learn all the time. Clients can also keep up-to-date with all things OPEN by following our salon via Instagram and our Facebook pages.